"I Think I Was Discriminated Against"
What legally qualifies as employment discrimination, and what to do if you believe it happened to you.
Employment discrimination occurs when an employer takes an adverse employment action against you because of a protected characteristic. It is not simply about being treated unfairly — the unfair treatment must be connected to a protected category.
Protected Categories
Types of Discrimination
Disparate Treatment
The most straightforward form: you were treated differently because of your protected category. Evidence often includes being treated worse than similarly.
Hostile Work Environment
Harassment based on a protected characteristic that is severe or pervasive enough to alter the conditions of your employment. A single offhand remark is usually not enough; a pattern of conduct typically is.
Failure to Accommodate
Under the ADA and Title VII, employers must provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs — unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship.
What Counts as an "Adverse Employment Action"?
What to Do Next
Document everything
Keep a written record of incidents, including dates, times, witnesses, and what was said or done. Save emails, texts, and any written communications.
Report internally
If your company has an HR department or complaint process, use it. This creates a record and may trigger the company's legal obligation to investigate.
File an EEOC or OCRE charge
This is the required first step before filing a lawsuit under most federal and state discrimination laws. You have 300 days (EEOC) or 180 days (OCRE).
Consult an employment attorney
An attorney can evaluate the strength of your claim, advise you on strategy, and ensure you meet all deadlines.
Important
Not every bad experience at work is legally actionable discrimination. The key question is whether the adverse action was motivated by your membership in a protected category. An attorney can help you determine whether the facts support a claim.
Questions About Your Legal Matter?
These resources provide general information. For guidance specific to your situation, contact Addison Law Firm.
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